Review by Frank Byers

The album Passaggi, featuring works by Joseph Schwantner, Stephen Michael Gryc, Leslie Bassett, Joseph Turrin, Nebojsa Zivkovic, and performed by The Hartt School Wind Ensemble under the direction of Glen Adsit, is a captivating collection of contemporary wind band music.

From the opening track, "From a Dark Millennium" by Joseph Schwantner, the listener is immediately drawn into a world of haunting melodies and intricate harmonies. The ensemble's performance is powerful and precise, capturing the intensity and complexity of Schwantner's composition.

The album also includes works by Stephen Michael Gryc, Leslie Bassett, Joseph Turrin, and Nebojsa Zivkovic, each showcasing the unique style and voice of the composer. The Hartt School Wind Ensemble's interpretation of each piece is masterful, with a keen attention to detail and a deep understanding of the music.

The standout track on the album is undoubtedly Nebojsa Zivkovic's "Concerto for Marimba and Wind Ensemble." Soloist David Skidmore's virtuosic performance is nothing short of breathtaking, and the ensemble's accompaniment is both sensitive and powerful.

Summary by Frank Byers

Passaggi is a must-listen for fans of contemporary wind band music. The Hartt School Wind Ensemble and Glen Adsit have delivered a stunning performance of these works, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent in the contemporary wind band genre.